Mirror Embroidery with Nikita Shah

Mirror embroidery, also known as shisha or abhla bharat, is a traditional embroidery technique that incorporates small mirrors or reflective metal pieces into fabric. From the desert lands of South Asia (Gujarat, Rajasthan, Sindh) this intricate art form adds a distinctive sparkle to textiles amongst the arid landscape. This technique not only adds visual interest but also symbolizes protection and warding off evil spirits in their respective tribes and communities.

In her practice, Nikita Shah has used the technique with varied round reflective objects, such as discarded watch batteries and leftover coins from travels, where she weaves tradition with sustainability. Through Shah’s instruction, Third Thursday attendees will use materials from MFTA’s warehouse to practice this traditional embroidery.

Nikita Shah is a multidisciplinary artist and educator at the intersection of fashion, art, and culture. Her artistic and fashion medium centers the hand-painted temple art of Kalamkari and its rich 3,000-year-old heritage currently only practiced in Sri Kalahasti, India, as well as the embroideries of Gujarat, which have both been passed down to her through her lineage.